rec.autos.simulators

My initial gut reactions is, "pffft..." heh. But seriously, does everyone do
that? If not with the AI, is it what you're supposed to do in, say, an
on-line race. Haven't tried on-line, but I might so it would be good to know
what's customary.

But back to the blue flag in GPL against the AI. I've seen it where I'm
struggling to get past someone who is going slow but the blue flags don't
come out. Then when I finally get around I'll see the blue flags come out
until I can put some distance between myself and the people I just passed.
What's up with that? Is that how it's supposed to work.

Sorry if this is a really newbie question. I've only been playing it for a
few months now.

Thanks!

Currently in F1, (note other categories have different rules for the
blue flag) the blue flag is only shown to cars being lapped and they
are required to let the lapping car to pass. If they ignore three (I
think?) consecutive blue flags they are given a stop-go penalty.

When racing the AI fight them all the way and never give an inch
,except for Surtees :-). Online is a different matter, if you are
being lapped give them an easy passage. If you are fighting for
position then carry on the fight as far as possible but there is no
point in being punted off the track by someone who is desperate to get
past. A skilfull faster driver will be able to pass you cleanly as
long as you stay on your line.

Hope this clears up your confusion.

Jeff

Appreciate your help.

You will notice that in practice (what we now call qualifying), you will see
the blue flag waved at you whenever a car is on your tail. In online racing it
is common courtesy to let that car by if you are not on a hot lap of your own
(for example, if you are on your out lap or if you have already made a mistake
that has ruined your lap). If you are on a hot lap, you are under no obligation
to ruin your lap by slowing to let the driver by.

During the actual race, you will only be shown the blue flag if you are about
to be lapped. Again it is common courtesy to let the driver lapping you by.
You will not be shown the blue flag if someone is right behind you when you are
racing for position (i.e., you are on the same lap).  In this case, you are
under no obligation to let the trailing car by.

Also, when you see a flag, you can be sure it is meant for you.   Even if you
are about to lap a car, you will not see the blue flag waved at the car in
front of you.  This is to avoid confusion. The driver in that car, however,
will see the blue flag and know to respond accordingly.

Hope this helps,

Dave Ewing